By Micah Jonah
January 29, 2026
Taiwan’s air force demonstrated its ability to rapidly reload and launch its advanced F-16 fighter jets in a readiness drill on Wednesday, highlighting combat-focused training amid ongoing tensions with China.
The drill at Chiayi Air Base in southern Taiwan involved personnel quickly resupplying missiles and refuelling F-16Vs, enabling the aircraft to return to the air in record time. Taiwanese authorities said the exercises simulate real combat scenarios rather than ceremonial displays.
Taiwan routinely scrambles jets to intercept Chinese aircraft that frequently fly near the island, which Taipei views as a campaign of harassment designed to test and exhaust Taiwan’s smaller defence forces while applying political pressure.
Weapons officer, Wu Bo-jhih explained; “This ensures that, in the shortest possible time, the aircraft can complete ammunition resupply and refuelling and quickly go out on the attack.”
Pilot Shih Shun-de added that the exercise shows the public how quickly the air force can respond. “The scramble drill lets people see the results of our realistic, combat-oriented training,” he said.
President Lai Ching-te said military exercises must be practical, flexible, and reflective of real combat. He also stressed developing strategies to counter potential threats using technology and artificial intelligence to maintain an effective and credible defence force.
China claims Taiwan as its territory and regularly challenges the island’s airspace, though no direct conflict has occurred in decades. The frequent air force scrambles provide valuable experience for Taiwanese pilots in confronting Chinese tactics.
